India’s women’s hockey icon Vandana Katariya has announced her retirement from international hockey, concluding a remarkable 15-year career that redefined the sport for the nation. With 320 international caps and 158 goals, the 32-year-old forward retires as the most capped Indian women’s hockey player, leaving behind a legacy built on grit, goals, and groundbreaking moments.
Vandana made her debut in 2009, and from there, she rose to become the heartbeat of the Indian team. Her journey was marked by pivotal contributions, none more memorable than during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. There, she not only helped India reach a historic fourth-place finish but also etched her name in history as the first and only Indian woman to score a hat-trick at the Olympic Games.
“This decision wasn’t easy, but I know it’s the right time,” Vandana said in a heartfelt statement, officially retiring after playing her final match during the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 in February. “Hockey has been my life for as long as I can remember, and wearing the Indian jersey was the greatest honour. But every journey has its course, and I leave with immense pride, gratitude, and love for the sport.”
Beyond her statistics, Vandana’s career has been a beacon of inspiration. Coming from Roshnabad, a small town in Uttarakhand, she faced and overcame numerous challenges, including social barriers and personal tragedies, to rise through the ranks of Indian hockey. Her determination not only pushed the team to new heights but also inspired a generation of young girls to dream of representing India.
In her farewell message, Vandana expressed deep gratitude. “I want to thank my coaches, teammates, support staff, Hockey India, my family, and all the fans who have supported me over the years. Every cheer, every message, every word of encouragement meant the world to me.”
While Vandana may be stepping off the pitch, she has assured fans that her love for the sport remains undiminished. “Indian hockey is in great hands, and I will always be its biggest supporter,” she said.
As Indian hockey continues its evolution, Vandana Katariya’s influence will endure — not just through her records, but through the spirit of resilience she leaves behind.
